Only clean, dry vegetation that was grown on the property may be burned. Residential burn permits require an acre or larger lot, a burn location that is located at least 100-feet from all neighbors and a burn location at least 30-feet from any structure.

Lot-clearing burns require special permits available at county fire agencies. Burn only the amount of material that can be completely consumed during the allowed burning hours.

"No burn," "limited burn" or "extended burn" day statuses are designated during the season.

On no burn days, all open burning is prohibited, unless an economic exemption is given. Contact the LCAQMD for details.

On all permissive burn days burning is generally allowed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

People can determine the daily burn day status by calling the numbers on the burn permit.

Rather than burning leaves, composting or using the vegetative waste pickup by waste collection services is encouraged. Improper leaf burning can produce excessive smoke that creates health hazards and potential public nuisance.

The law requires all fires be supervised by an able-bodied adult.

Burning even a small amount of illegal material can result in toxic ash and smoke that contains cancer-causing substances and contributes to health problems. Burning prohibited materials can also result in significant fines.

The health of some people with smoke allergies and respiratory problems can be degraded by even small amounts of smoke. Air quality officials ask people to be considerate of neighbors.

A permit does not allow people to create health problems for others. People can be liable for health care costs, fines and other costs as a result of burning.

For chipping information, contact a fire safe council. South county residents should visit www.southlakefiresafecouncil.org or a nearby fire station. All other residents should contact the West Lake Resource Conservation District at 279-2968.